Public art in the Midlands serves as a bridge between community preservation and identity. Projects like the Lincoln Street Tunnel lighting installation and Shelby LeBlanc’s Five Points mural aim to boost foot traffic and tourism. These initiatives occasionally face hurdles, including political debates over funding.
From controversial fire hydrant sculptures to grassroots efforts in Irmo, art shapes the cultural landscape of the Midlands. Many view these installations as tools for economic development and urban revitalization.
Editor’s Note
AI was used to assist in summarizing the articles previously reported by Post and Courier journalists. This story was reviewed by editors and reporters before publishing.
Here’s a roundup of major public art news to know:
What happened to Columbia’s Busted Plug? City yet to decide ‘when, where, how or what’ to do
The 40-foot Busted Plug sculpture remains in storage after city workers moved it from Taylor Street in 2023. A private developer requested the relocation to make way for a new apartment project. Artist Blue Sky expressed frustration with city leaders, accusing them of failing to value the work as legitimate art. Although surrounding towns offered to host the landmark, Columbia officials chose to hold the piece until a permanent site is approved. —Genna Contino; March 4, 2024
She started on Columbia bar napkins. Now she’s the artist behind Five Points’ newest mural.
Artist Shelby LeBlanc completed her largest mural yet, titled “A Splash of Color,” on the wall of La Bohème. The work features vibrant images of fish, frogs and waterlilies to represent the resilience of the Five Points district. LeBlanc drew inspiration from doodles she once made on bar napkins while studying as a local college student. The Five Points Association unveiled the piece to welcome visitors and showcase the area’s unique character. —Sydney Dunlap; July 22, 2024
Shelby LeBlanc’s newest mural spreads across the wall of La Bohème at 745 Saluda Avenue in Columbia. The painting took LeBlanc over 600 hours.
One of Columbia most important artists featured in new Vista art installation near Pearlz
A new wall sculpture at Park and Gervais streets honors late abstract expressionist painter Laura Spong and a historic train conductor. Artists David and Bethany Falter created the chiseled portraits to represent the convergence of Columbia’s rail history and its artistic future. The Congaree Vista Guild commissioned the installation as the 17th addition to the district’s collection of public art. Family members attended the dedication, noting the mural reflects Spong’s deep commitment to her neighbors and community. —Sydney Dunlap; April 15, 2025
How a mural at an Irmo sandwich shop kickstarted one group’s push for more public art
Locals formed the Greater Irmo Artist Guild to bring more creativity to the town through grassroots collaboration. The group’s first project is a mural of the Irmo High School mascot at Mathias Sandwich Shop. Members raised funds for the piece by seeking support from friends, neighbors and community charities. Guild leaders hope this success leads to future projects honoring the fire department, as well as local festivals. —Sydney Dunlap; July 10, 2025
The Lincoln Street Tunnel leads visitors from The Vista to Finlay Park.
3 public art projects aim to encourage foot traffic between Columbia’s Finlay Park and The Vista
The Congaree Vista Guild is spearheading three initiatives to transform the Lincoln Street Tunnel into a pedestrian thoroughfare to Finlay Park. Artist Maria DeFelice completed a series of murals showcasing active outdoor lifestyles to brighten the concrete walkway. Future plans include a 600-foot-long lighting installation by Jill Anholt and a gateway arch designed by Columbia’s Clark Ellefson. These projects utilize hospitality tax revenue and private donations to reinforce the district’s identity as a cultural destination. —Lacy Latham; April 8, 2026
